Thomas County Academy
by Gerri Balthazor
November 01, 2007
Operational for the third year, Thomas County Academy is creating a model for a technologically rich, educational environment that strives to “unlock students’ potential.” The Academy provides students with the skills they need shifting from a time-based to an achievement-based system of accountability. It contains a unique prototype with the focus of rigorous and relevant curriculum, 21st century skills, community service, and the involvement of parents.
In this achievement-based learning environment, students take charge and become self-directed learners. They define learning goals and problems that are meaningful to them and understand how specific activities will help them achieve their individual standards. TCA provides a course of instruction that aligns to the state standards, as well as, responding to student needs and interests. In this environment, the students make key decisions regarding their own learning. They engage in research and problem solving, with multiple perspectives, using a variety of individual and team-based solution strategies. The students continually develop and refine both learning and problem solving strategies, as they apply and transfer knowledge creatively.
